Bicycle MechanicsBroken bottom bracket? Tacoed wheel? If you're having problems with your bicycle, or just need help fixing a flat, drop in here for the latest on bicycle mechanics & bicycle maintenance.

I have a fairly old MTB that I am planning on taking apart and repainting this winter. I have a few questions before I start.

First, what type of paint should I use? I know that many people say not to use canned spray paint like rustoleum, but I was wondering if there are any types of spray paints that any of you have used that are successful, and if there are no spray paints that will work well, what type of paint should I use?

Second, what all prep work would you recommend me do? I already plan on lightly sanding down the whole frame, but is anything else that I should do such as clean with any special chemicals?

It is an aluminum frame that doesn't appear to have any type of clear coat currently and is only painted in the front and the paint appears to be powder coat. And the rear swing-arm is steel with black paint and has clear coat.

I just read a thread on this but I can't find it. I think it was in the vintage section. He used an engine heat paint and it worked really well. Try a search and read up. I was impressed. I think it was dupli-color. Auto parts stores carry it. He left it in the attack in texas and baked it in the heat and it is holding up very well. I am trying it on a mtb soon.